What’s the difference between 2.4-Ghz and 5-Ghz Wi-Fi? Which should I use?

HughesNet HT2000W modem provides two networks, a 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Identify which is best for you.

HughesNet HT2000W modem provides two networks, a 2.4-GHz and 5-GHz. You can tell them apart based upon the name – the 2.4-GHz network name starts with “hug2g” and the 5-GHz network name starts with “hug5g”. Both networks are fast enough to support Gen5 service, so what are the differences?

Deciding which network to use should be based on your unique home set-up.

The 2.4-GHz can be used for all your wireless devices. It can transmit data over longer distances and through walls and other solid objects. But, the 2.4-GHz band is more susceptible to interference, so speeds may not be as high.

The 5-GHz band is ideal for newer devices such as your laptop, phone, or tablet because it can transmit higher amounts of data. However, it is less able to penetrate solid walls and objects, so if you are far away from your HT2000W device, your signal strength may be lower.

Devices streaming a lot of video, such as Roku or Amazon Fire Stick, should connect to the 5-GHz network, provided you can receive a strong wireless signal. If you cannot, use the 2.4-GHz.

Find out where your home Wi-Fi signal is strongest by using the Wi-Fi Gauge on the HughesNet Mobile App.